What to Expect with Rhinoplasty Surgery
Anaesthesia
Rhinoplasty procedures may be performed under general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia with sedation, depending on the complexity of the surgery and your individual needs. This will be discussed with you during your consultation.
Hospital Stay
Rhinoplasty may be completed as a day procedure (outpatient) or involve a short inpatient stay, depending on your health and the surgical plan.
Duration of Surgery
Surgical time typically ranges from 2 to 5 hours, depending on the extent of correction required.
After Surgery: Recovery and Post-Operative Care
Immediate Post-Operative Period
You may feel nasal congestion or a dull headache during the first 24 hours after surgery. Simple pain relief medication will be provided, which is generally effective for managing discomfort. It’s important to rest with your head elevated using 2–3 pillows, and place pillows at your sides to prevent rolling onto your face while sleeping.
Follow the post-operative instructions closely, which include:
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Using prescribed nasal sprays
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Gently cleansing your nostrils with 3% hydrogen peroxide
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Applying the antibiotic ointment as directed
Some bruising and swelling, especially around the eyes, is common and usually resolves within a week. Feelings of congestion or emotional sensitivity during recovery are also normal and typically temporary.
Nasal Splint
A nasal splint is usually applied and removed at your one-week review appointment.
Nasal Packing
In most cases, nasal packing is not required, which allows for normal breathing through the nose upon waking from anaesthesia.
Recovery Timeline
| Activity | Estimated Time to Resume |
|---|---|
| Return to work | 1–2 weeks |
| Social, recreational, and travel activities | 2–3 weeks |
| Light physical activity | 2–3 weeks |
| Strenuous exercise, impact activities, and sun exposure | 6–8 weeks |
It’s important to avoid direct sun exposure and high-impact activities while healing to minimise swelling and support optimal outcomes.
What to Expect Long-Term
You may notice a change in the shape of your nose once the splint is removed, but full results develop gradually. Subtle changes may continue for up to 12 months, as swelling resolves and soft tissues settle. It's not uncommon for patients to notice ongoing refinement during this time.
If you have concerns during recovery, you're encouraged to contact Dr Imani’s team for support and assessment.
In a small percentage of cases (approximately 1–3%), a secondary revision procedure may be considered. This would typically take place after the tissues have fully healed, usually around 12 months post-surgery.
How Long Do Results Last?
Rhinoplasty results are designed to be long-term, although natural ageing and changes in facial tissues may subtly influence the nose’s appearance over time.
Cost of Rhinoplasty in Perth
Understanding the Costs of Your Surgery
The total cost of your surgery depends on several factors and includes fees from different providers who are involved in your care. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Surgical Fee
• This is the fee for Specialist surgeon’s services and is based on the complexity of your surgery and the surgeon’s expertise and experience.
• You will receive a detailed surgical fee estimate after your consultation outlining the possible inclusion of any Medicare and Private health insurance rebates .
Rhinoplasty costs generally range from $5,000 to $35,000. You will be provided with a detailed estimate after your initial assessment. In cases where functional concerns are present—such as nasal obstruction or trauma—partial rebates may be available through Medicare or your private health fund.
2. Hospital Fees
• These include costs for your hospital admission and operating room use, charged on an hourly basis.
• Quotes are provided directly by the accredited hospitals where your surgeon operates at.
• If your procedure meets certain clinical criteria, private health insurance may cover some or all of these fees, especially if the surgery qualifies under the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS).
• Our staff will guide you through obtaining this quote.
3. Anaesthetist Fees
• If general anaesthesia is required, a specialist anaesthetist (FRANZCA-accredited) will be involved.
• They charge separately and will provide their own hourly rate quote.
• Again, we’ll assist you in connecting with them to obtain the necessary details.
• You do not have to source an anaesthetist; we have set specialist anaesthetist who work with your surgeon on designated dates.
4. Other Incidental Costs
• These may include:
o Medications
o Post-surgery garments
o Travel or hotel stays (especially if you're coming from outside the Perth metropolitan area)
Important Notes
• We are only able to provide the quote for the surgical fee. Hospital and anaesthetist fees are separate and managed independently.
• Our team is here to support and guide you through obtaining all the necessary quotes.
• Medicare and private health insurance rebates may apply if your surgery is deemed medically necessary and includes an eligible MBS item number.
If you have any questions or need help at any stage, please don’t hesitate to reach out—our friendly staff are here to assist you.
Important Information and Disclaimers:
• Any surgical or non-surgical procedure carries risks.
• Individual outcomes, results, experience and recovery times vary based on individual’s genetics, environmental factors, diet, exercise, sun protection, smoking and general health. Individual’s outcomes are only relevant for that individual and they do not necessarily reflect or guarantee the same outcome for another individual given the same treatment.
• The information provided is general and educational in nature.
• It does not constitute medical advice nor replace consultation with a qualified health professional.
• We encourage all patients to seek a second opinion and consult their general practitioner for a referral before engaging in a surgical and non-surgical consultation with us.
Still have questions?
Contact us to arrange your consultation with Dr Imani.
